Optimised performance of ultrahigh-performance silicomanganese slag concrete by water glass immersion

Silicomanganese slag (SS) is a byproduct of the ferroalloy industry. It causes environmental pollution and consume resources. In this study, water glass immersion was used to improve the performance of SS, which was utilised in the production of ultrahigh-performance concrete (UHPC). The results show that SS treated with a 2% water glass concentration for 24 h had 16 MPa higher compressive strength for composite than pure UHPC. Additionally, the treated composite had approximately half the mass and compressive strength losses of pure UHPC after freeze-thaw testing, indicating that the treatment had a significant positive effect on the freeze-thaw resistance of ultrahigh-performance silicomanganese slag concrete (UHPSSC). Microstructural analysis also showed that water glass immersion optimised the morphology of UHPSSC, contributing to improved mechanical performance and freeze-thaw resistance of the composite.